Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling

How to Plan Your Bathroom Remodeling Project

Revised 8-12-2014

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

In 1972 Neal’s Construction Company, Inc. began and has since grown into one of the top 2% of all remodeling contractors in the United States. Neal Hendy’s sons, Neal Jr., Steve, and Alan, and Neal’s daughter, Leanne, joined the team. Over the years, many design, innovation, and quality awards have been earned from the local and national media, trade associations, and national trade publications. However, the real success at Neal’s Design•Remodel has been the people working together to plan and construct our clients’ home dreams into reality. Our goal is solving home improvement living needs, within the budgets of our clients, by delivering a superior product through quality service. We never lose sight of the fact that our future in this industry depends on how we “wow” our customers today.

About Neal’s

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

TABLE OF CONTENTSForward .......................................................................................................................................1

Project Priorities ........................................................................................................................2

Setting Priorities ...........................................................................................................................................................2

Setting a Budget ............................................................................................................................................................4

Priority Checklist .........................................................................................................................................................5

Designing a Stylish & Functional Bathroom ......................................................................... 6

Collecting & Organizing Design Ideas ......................................................................................................................6

Design Ideas for Luxury Baths ...................................................................................................................................9

Design Ideas for Standard & Upscale Baths ...........................................................................................................11

Design Ideas for Half Baths & Power Rooms .........................................................................................................13

Consulting a Bathroom Design Professional..........................................................................................................15

Setting Your Timetable ...........................................................................................................18

Next Steps .................................................................................................................................18

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 1

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

The success of a bathroom remodeling project depends on attention to detail. Bathrooms are often small spaces that require installation of multiple fixtures, space for storage, proper ventilation, efficient lighting, safety features, waterproofing and elements that add comfort and style. There are many decisions to make – from the selection of a tub or shower to the choice of knobs for cabinetry. Each feature is important. Where do you begin?

With 40+ years in business as a design-remodel firm we understand the complexities of remodeling a bathroom and the decisions homeowners must make. It’s our job to help guide you through a process that can sometimes seem overwhelming.

When we first meet with a homeowner to discuss remodeling a bathroom, we ask a series of questions. It’s important to understand your priorities. We want to know what you like and dislike about your current bathroom. We also want to know all the items on your “wish list”. From there, we review your “needs” and “wants” to design a plan and determine a budget for the project.

We have created this guide to help you get started with your bathroom remodeling project. The guide includes questions to answer to help you set your priorities. It also provides resources for bathroom design ideas, products to consider in your plans and how to prepare for a first meeting with a bath design professional.

The guide contains many photos of bathrooms we have remodeled in the Greater Cincinnati area to use as an inspiration for your project. We invite you to visit our showroom, explore our website and online “idea center” for helpful information and to view photos of more bath projects, and attend one of our free bathroom planning seminars. You can also schedule an appointment for a complimentary in-home consultation with one of our Project Consultants to help you get started.

We hope that you will find the guide helpful and we welcome your questions and comments.

The Neal’s Design•Remodel Team

Forward

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 2

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

Project Priorities

Bathroom remodeling projects range from half bath makeovers to building an addition for a luxury master bath. Budgets for bathroom remodels vary widely, too. To successfully plan a bathroom remodeling project, we always start by talking with the homeowners about what they want to do – their vision for the project. We then discuss priorities – what things must be included in the project and what options may be nice to include but aren’t essential to achieving the project goal. Setting priorities first helps set realistic financial expectations for the project. These steps, in turn, assure that your project is on target. So let’s get started.

Setting Priorities

Begin planning your bathroom remodeling project by defining the priorities and purpose of your remodel. This will help you create limits and set expectations for determining the project budget. Start by answering these questions:

How long do you intend to own this home? This is the most important question to consider when thinking about any remodeling project. If you plan to live in the home for more than five years you may want to add amenities that you will enjoy over time. If, on the other hand, the home is a short-term investment and you plan to sell within five years, you will want to plan your project to appeal to prospective buyers.

What type of bathroom are you planning to remodel? Is it a half bath or powder room? A children’s bathroom? Master suite? Guest bath? Lower-level bathroom?

What type of space are you planning to remodel?Is it an existing bathroom where you plan to use the current footprint? Is it a bathroom you wish to expand into another space in the house? Is it a space currently used for another purpose that you wish to convert to a bathroom? Is it new space that you want to add to your home?

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 3

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

Who will be the primary users - you, your spouse, children, parents or guests?

Will the bathroom accommodate just one person or do you need space for multiple users?

How many people will use the bath at one time?If two or more people are sharing a bathroom, what sort of access and accommodations will they need? It may be helpful to install two sinks, multiple mirrors and a storage space for each person.

Do any of the users have special needs? You may want to include “Universal Design” features in your remodeling plans such as a curbless shower, a shower seat, grab bars, wall mounted sinks, a handheld shower, tall toilets, slip-resistant floors, lever handles on fixtures and ample floor space to accommodate a wheelchair if needed. If you have young children, consider both access and safety.

How will the space be used? A bathroom should be designed for both function and comfort. Think about bathing, grooming, make-up application, dressing, exercise, relaxation, laundry and other ways you may use the space. Do you want to be able to answer the phone, watch TV or listen to music in this bathroom?

What type of storage do you need? Towels, bed sheets, blankets, toiletries, cosmetics, cleaning supplies and medical supplies are items typically stored on shelves and in cabinets. When planning storage, also think about small appliances such as hairdryers, electric razors and curlers. Do you want to keep these items on hand or out of sight?

Do you plan to add a closet for clothing in or adjacent to the bathroom?How much space will you need to store clothing? Do you want to create a walk-in closet for changing? Also consider ventilation if you will be storing clothes in an area where condensation is a factor and protecting items in the event of a water leak or overflow.

Do you plan to include a “privy” (a commode area for the toilet and/or bidet) in the space?If there will be multiple users of the bathroom, a privy will provide additional privacy. Many people simply prefer a separate area for a toilet in their bathroom design.

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 4

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

What do you dislike most about your present bathroom?Is the space confined? Is the shower or tub area hard to clean? Is storage a problem? Are the fixtures outdated? Is the lighting bad? Make a list to help identify your priorities.

What do you like most about your present bathroom?List anything that is working for you. Is there a window or skylight that brings natural light into the room? Do you like the overall layout? These are features you may want to factor into your remodeling plan.

Are there items or fixtures in the bathroom that can be used or salvaged?

Light fixtures, pedestal sinks, stand-alone tubs, toilets, medicine cabinets are some of the items that can be re-used.

What is your personal home design “style”?Whether your style is contemporary, traditional, country, minimalist, transitional, environmentally friendly (green) or another style, the design of the bathroom should complement other areas of your home.

After you’ve thought about and answered these questions make some notes to discuss with your contractor or designer. Identifying your priorities will make the process of discussing your project with a contractor or designer much easier.

Next, take some time to determine and prioritize your “needs” and “wants” for this project. Needs are aspects of your project that are essential to your goal, while wants are aspects you would prefer to have but are optional to the success of your goal. The process of identifying where each aspect of your project falls between these two categories can be lengthy, since items you originally thought were needs may turn out to be wants compared to everything else you want to accomplish.

You can use the chart on the next page to prioritize the primary features of your bathroom project.

Setting a Budget

The cost of your bathroom remodeling project will depend on your priorities and how much work needs to be done to achieve your goal. Once you have determined your priorities, it’s a good idea to meet with your contractor who can provide an initial estimate for your project.

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 5

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

Priority Checklist

NEED WANT NOTES

New Vanity

Vanity Surface

Sink(s)

New Commode

Bidet

New Tub

Whirlpool Tub

Separate Shower

Showerhead/Multiple Heads

Steam Shower

Faucets

Separate Commode Room

Linen Storage

Clothes Closet

Closet Organization System

Heated Floor

Wall Tile

Floor Tile

Decorative Tile Accent

New Lighting Fixtures

Laundry Area/Appliances

Media Equipment

Spa

Sauna

Other:

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 6

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

Designing a Stylish & Functional Bathroom

Bathrooms are often the smallest rooms of a home. A well-conceived design is essential to fully optimize the space. Whether you’re looking to remodel a luxury master bath, a “Jack and Jill” style bath, a guest bathroom or a half-bath, it is important to create a detailed design that addresses function, comfort and aesthetics.

The following sections of the guide focus on design basics and will show you how to gather ideas for your bathroom remodeling project, offer design ideas for different types of bathrooms, and explain what to expect when you first meet with a bathroom design professional.

Collecting & Organizing Ideas

Any home remodeling project begins with ideas. Before you sit down with a contractor or designer it helps to have an idea about what you want to do. Take some time to look at designs and products that may work in your home. To get you started, we’ll share some resources that include places where you can see products installed and learn about planning your project, websites where you can view a variety of bathroom designs and styles, and magazines to read about current design trends.

How to Collect Bathroom Design Ideas

Here are some of our favorite resources to help you collect design ideas for your bathroom remodeling project:

1.   Neal’s Design Remodel ShowroomWe invite you to visit our 5,500 sq. ft. showroom to see bathroom displays and products for your home. At Neal’s you will find an array of products including cabinets, counter surfaces, tile and hardware. We offer seminars to help you plan your bathroom project and you can set up an appointment to speak with a professional project consultant. You can also view bathrooms we’ve remodeled on our website.

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 7

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

2. A CameraIf you are attending home shows, visiting showrooms or at a home that has features you’d like to include in your project, take photos. You can use either a digital camera or smart phone. Create a folder such as “My Bathroom Remodeling Project” on your computer or tablet to house all of your design ideas.

3.   PinterestPinterest is a social media scrapbook that allows you to create pin boards of images of interest to you. It was developed in 2009 and launched in 2010 so it’s a relatively new website with a growing interest. If you’re planning a bathroom remodeling project you can create a free Pinterest account and collect photos of design ideas and products from virtually anywhere on the Internet. In our blog articles, you’ll find “Pin It” buttons below photos, such as the two in this article, which make it easy for you to add photos directly to a “board” in your account. Check out our “Baths” board on Neal’s Pinterest Page. Follow us on Pinterest too.

4.   HouzzMany homeowners find Houzz – a website for home design, remodeling and building – to be very helpful for collecting ideas and sharing them with their contractor. The website allows you to browse photos by room, style and metro area (e.g., Cincinnati). If you set up a free account, you can create “Ideabooks” by adding favorite photos of projects you find on the site. The content on Houzz continues to grow everyday as architects, interior designers, builders and consumers add photos and blog articles to the site. Check out Neal’s Houzz page. We’ll be adding to it in the upcoming months.

5.   HGTVFor the past 30 years HGTV has revolutionized the way people look at their homes. The “Designers’ Portfolio” featured on HGTV’s website is continually updated and a place where you can view hundreds of bathroom projects and a range of interior design styles. You can also see “before” and “after” projects and videos of design shows.

6.   Better Homes and GardensBetter Homes and Gardens Magazine celebrated its 90th year in print in 2012 and has been a resource used by generations of homeowners for interior design ideas. Since its inception, BH&G has had its finger on the

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 8

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

pulse of America. Its website is one of the best sources for practical home improvement information. BH&G showcases great ideas for functional bathrooms where you can find storage solutions and innovative bathroom furnishings including seating, vanities and even medicine cabinets. BH&G also publishes 3 special interest magazines discussing the latest kitchen and bathroom trends and products.

7.   National Kitchen and Bath AssociationNKBA has an online “Inspiration Gallery”  that you can browse to see some incredible bathrooms in a range of styles equipped with some of the newest products on the market.

We hope you find these resources helpful in gathering ideas for your bathroom remodeling project. We would like to invite you to meet with one of our project consultants or designers to discuss your project. We always enjoy answering questions and sharing ideas.

How to Organize Ideas - Create a Project Binder

Details are at the heart of every well-designed bathroom. Most people gather ideas by looking at photos in magazines and brochures. Rather than tearing pages from a magazine and sticking them in a folder, why not organize your ideas in a binder? It will help you to set priorities and to clarify elements and products you would like to include. In creating a binder consider the following:

• Select a sturdy 3-ring binder, 3 inches in width, with multiple pockets. This will provide enough room to insert product catalogs, brochures, paint color charts, drawings and other information you will need to share.

• Purchase 8 ½” x 11” clear sheet protectors for filing photos and pages from magazines. This a great way to organize ideas you’ve collected without having to punch holes in pages only to have them tear. The sheet protectors are also helpful for filing drawings and notes.

• Use tabbed index dividers with pockets. Five to eight count dividers are helpful for organizing a binder. You may want to set it up for ideas, budget, drawings/plans, contract, change orders, products and other

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 9

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

categories essential to your project. Pockets help to keep notes, brochures, receipts and other information organized and easy to access.

• When you file pages from magazines or photos, take the time to make notes on them or circle items you would like to include in your project. For example, if you’re planning to remodel a kitchen and find a photo of a kitchen you really like label, note and circle items on the photo such as counters, backsplash, knobs, cabinets and flooring. Be specific so that you can review your preferences with a consultant or designer who can incorporate your ideas into the plan and help you find those items.

• Consider using the binder for filing warranties for your project. It will serve as a record and you may want to provide it as a reference to a realtor or documentation to a buyer if you should decide to sell your home.

Design Ideas for Luxury Baths

Many homeowners are investing in luxury upgrades to their master bathrooms. Why? Because master bathrooms are our personal space and we want that space to be a place where we can relax and rejuvenate ourselves, and also be a place that reflects our individual style.

Function, aesthetics and personal comfort are important in luxury master bathroom spas, but it’s more important that they be designed around your lifestyle and personal needs. Keep in mind that a luxurious master bathroom doesn’t have to be a huge space. A well designed floor plan and choosing the right products will help you create a comfortable personal retreat.

Based on our experience with homeowners in the Great Cincinnati area, here are four luxury master bathroom spa design ideas and trends to update your space:

The Ultimate ShowerOne of the first things to consider in your remodeling plan is the shower. More people are foregoing tubs in favor of a larger shower. A 3-by-3 foot shower is adequate space but a 4-by-5 foot shower will provide more comfort and room for a bench, niches and showerheads.

Frameless enclosures or custom walk-in showers without doors ease maintenance and add glamour. Fixed showerheads and handheld sprays offer a range of options for water flow.

Larger tile is being used on shower walls for both function and style. Designers have been featuring 3-by-6 inch subway tile and 6-by-6

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 10

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

inch field tiles in showers. Large tile is easier to maintain and becomes a focal point when installed on an angle. Shower wall tile can include glass mosaic accents or be a full wall of mosaic tile.

Small mosaic tile and nonskid tile can be used on shower floors to provide traction and prevent slipping and falls.

The Luxury TubThe main purpose of a spa is relaxation. Tubs are a great way to calm stress and soothe sore muscles. Soaking tubs, rather than tubs with jets, are the current trend. Platform tubs are smaller for ease of access and can be trimmed in beautiful tiles. Freestanding tubs are also popular because of their shapes and the dramatic architectural impact they create in a bathroom.

The Elegant Vanity and CabinetryFurniture style vanities and consoles add a rich look to a master bathroom. Here are some things to consider:

• Vanities are being raised to kitchen height, 36 inches from the floor to the top of the counter, for comfortable access.

• To create space for a larger vanity, some homeowners eliminate the tub.• Marble counters are very popular because of the elegant classic look marble creates in a room.• Granite, with its beautiful lines and sparkle, is also popular.• Quartz is easy to maintain and new designs are stunning and resemble marble and granite patterns.• Vessel sinks add sculptural interest but require a taller or wall-mount

faucet.• Bathroom cabinetry is important for both storage and the architectural

element it adds. Tall cabinets and crown molding are being used in luxury bathrooms.

Posh AccentsAdding comfort features and a little “bling” help complete a luxury master bathroom spa. Consider these “wish list” items

• Heated floors to warm up a bathroom on a cold morning or evening.• Lighting creates an ambience for relaxation or for grooming. Chandeliers

set the mood and wall sconces provide lighting for make-up application and shaving.

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 11

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

• Small-framed mirrors add elegance.• Glass mosaic tile accents make the room glisten.

Whatever options you choose, begin your remodeling project by consulting with a designer who will help you avoid pitfalls and suggest products and materials to help save money in the long run and add value to your home.

Design Ideas for Standard & Upscale Baths

In many homes, bathroom space is limited. The bathroom is often the smallest room and most used. A standard bathroom in a home typically measures 5-by-7 feet. In that space you will find a toilet, sink and shower/tub combination. Bathrooms may be intentionally designed that way to create more living space in bedrooms and on the main floor.

Remodeling a standard-sized bathroom presents an intriguing challenge to interior design professionals, especially if you plan to remodel within the existing space. Interior designers are inspired by the needs of homeowners who want their bathroom to be more comfortable, practical, feel spacious, look great and add value to their home. Designers consider the function of the room, the best placement of elements, use of products and aesthetics. 

Design Options for Standard Bathrooms

Design options for remodeling a standard (5-by-7 feet) bathroom to optimize the space and meet homeowners’ objectives include:

Creating more floor spaceEvery inch counts if your space is small. In a standard bathroom, removing an old vanity and replacing it with a pedestal sink will free up floor space. In doing so, you may be sacrificing storage space that the old base cabinet provided.

Consider your options for a toilet to optimize floor space. Toilet bowls come in two basic styles, elongated and round. Using a round bowl can conserve space. An elongated bowl measures up to 31-inches from the wall, while a round bowl has a maximum depth of 28-inches or less. One-piece toilets occupy less space and are easier to clean than the two-piece bowl and tank models.

Tankless toilets are a new product on the market and save both space and water but are costly. You’re more

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 12

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

likely to see these models in new construction. Water supply lines may need to be replaced to accommodate the fixture and loss of electric power will make the unit inoperable.

Finding solutions for storage Discuss your storage needs with a designer. Adding shelves built into the wall or over the toilet for storage will conserve floor space. Glass wall shelves can be an attractive solution for bathroom storage. Glass stands up well to humidity and is easy to clean. Consider using baskets on shelves to contain clutter. Towels, cosmetics, grooming items and bath supplies can be stored in baskets.

Replacing an old bathtubToday’s bathtub shower units offer many features that improve both the look and function of an old tub. Combination tub and shower units may have a hinged glass surround for containing water and easy maintenance and can be placed in a corner of a bathroom. Tub and shower units also come in a variety of shapes, designs and may have an easy care surround with wall shelves and safety bars.

If space is tight, consider a walk-in corner shower or a smaller freestanding tub that requires less room.

Using light colored flooringLight colored ceramic or vinyl flooring will make the room appear more spacious.

Removing wallpaperWallpaper, especially wallpaper borders, can make a room feel confined. Painting the door and trims white, and the walls a light bright neutral color, makes a small room seem bigger. Popular paint colors include white, beige, light gray, yellow, light green or pale blue.

Adding mirrorsMirrors reflect light in a room to create an illusion of space. Mirrors are also functional. A mirror placed over the sink for grooming or a recessed mirrored medicine cabinet for storing supplies and cosmetics are essential fixtures for any bathroom. Medicine cabinets are making a big comeback because of new designs and features. They come in framed and unframed styles and a variety of shapes. They also come with lights and electrical outlets. Try using two or three medicine cabinets to add interest and as a solution for storage and lighting.

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 13

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

Carefully selecting tileTile design is especially important in a small bath for both function and visual appeal. White ceramic tile is timeless but accent tile and using a variety of tile sizes, forms and textures adds interest. Tile is also an element that can add value at resale if it is appealing. This is where an experienced interior designer’s training and expertise can really pay off.

Design Options for Upscale Bathrooms

If you’ve considered adding space to an existing standard bathroom, you will want to discuss your options with your project consultant and work with him/her on the details and selection of products to use. In addition to the design options above, features that will fit into a 100 square foot space (a 10-by-10 foot upscale bathroom) include:

• Separate tub and shower fixtures.• A counter with two sinks.• A compartmentalized commode area.• Wall cabinets.

Design Ideas for Half Baths & Powder Rooms

Half baths or “powder rooms” are places in our homes where we can be creative. We often refer to half baths as jewel boxes of a home because these are small spaces where home homeowners may add high end products without incurring huge costs. Since a half bath is often located off the central area of a home, it is also a great space to add a splash of color or to display artwork.

If you are planning to update or add a half bath to your home, the basic elements are a toilet, sink and mirror. Shelving and cabinets can be added as space permits. Consider walls, floors, ceilings, windows and especially the door in your plan. Note the swing of the door. Does it open into the room or to the adjacent hallway? Is the door a pocket door? The door placement and style will define the space and options for accessories such as shelving, towel bars, hooks and artwork.

Here are some design ideas and tips if you are remodeling a half bath:

A vanity is often the focal point in a half bath.Consider elegant custom cabinetry tailored to fit and optimize the space. Furniture-style vanities work well in small spaces. They may feature small drawers for storage or open shelves below to keep towels, bath tissue and

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 14

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

soaps at hand. Furniture-style vanities come in a range of sizes, finishes and styles. For a unique vanity, select a table or console and add a sink to the piece. You can use high-end granite, marble, quartz or tempered glass for a vanity counter. If space in the room is tight, a pedestal sink may be a good option. Look for a sink that is wide enough on the surface to accommodate a soap dish and possibly a towel bar.

A half bath is a perfect spot for an interesting or elegant sink.Vessel sinks come in a variety of styles, materials and finishes and fit well in small spaces. Pedestal sinks are space savers and can add architectural interest to the room.  While the classic white sink remains popular, pedestal sinks are available in a variety of styles, forms, colors and materials. Some are created by adding a vessel sink to a pedestal. Also, consider under-mount sinks, especially if you select a stone countertop for a vanity.

Small details count, spend some time selecting a faucet. New faucet designs are amazing and can add interest to a half bath. There are styles that can be mounted on a sink, vanity or wall. Finishes are important, too. Brushed nickel continues to be popular but look at chrome, brass, oil rubbed bronze or copper. Faucets can be expensive, so consider this as a “splurge” item in your plans. Also, look for towel bar and tissue holder accessories that match the faucet you select.

A mirror is an essential feature in a half bath. As a design element, mirrors reflect both images and light to create an illusion of depth that can make a room seem larger than it actually is. Mirrors can be used in several ways, a mirrored wall, in an elegant frame hung over the sink, hung on walls in lieu of artwork or installed strategically with light fixtures.

In a small space lighting is important. Bathroom lighting is often selected in conjunction with mirrors. Lights can be placed above mirrors, on each side of a mirror or within the mirror. Select fixtures that illuminate the sink and mirror so that people can check their appearance. If your space has a high ceiling you may be able to install a light fixture there. Consider pendant light fixtures. Pendant lights add glamour and sparkle as well as functional lighting to a room. If your bathroom lacks a window, a sun tunnel may be a way to add natural light.

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 15

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

Wall tile is an option worth considering in a small bathroom.Adding a tile backsplash or a half wall to a small bath can brighten the room or add an artistic element. There are beautiful glass mosaic tiles to choose from as well as ceramic tile, natural stone and marble. Wall tile is often the “wow” factor in any bathroom.

There are numerous options for flooring in a half bath.Condensation is generally not a problem in a half bath so you can install carpet or hardwood floors. More homeowners are opting for hardwoods to create a uniform threshold from the hall into the bathroom. Hardwoods can be laid in patterns, with a border or can contrast with the hall flooring. The most popular bathroom flooring is still tile. Ceramic floor tile comes in many sizes and colors and works well in small spaces. White and black mosaic tile continues to be a classic flooring choice for half baths.

Add color to your home with paint or wallpaper.A half bath is ideal for adding rich color to your home without being overwhelmed by it. Jewel tone colors like rich reds, gold, turquoise, russet or plum add warmth. For drama try black, dark brown or deep grey.  Intense yellows, blues and greens with white accent trim will brighten the room. White, neutral or pastel colors can a make the room seem larger. Textured wallpaper can create an aura of elegance.

Display artwork.  Art doesn’t have to be expensive to be appreciated. Show your personal style by framing children’s colorful masterpieces, favorite photos or a bright colored fabric. If you have a special piece, this may be the place to hang it.

Consulting a Bathroom Design Professional

If you’re thinking about remodeling a bathroom, what are the things that are motivating you? Could it be that you dislike cleaning a shower stall with sliding doors that sometimes get stuck on the tracks? Have you experienced mold on the ceilings and walls due to inadequate ventilation? Have you grown weary of the tile and flickering of fluorescent lights? Do you find the general layout of the room dysfunctional and perhaps even unsafe for users?

Bathrooms often present a number of design challenges:

• Bathrooms require installation and placement of multiple fixtures - toilet, sinks, shower, tub, bidet, towel warming racks, etc.

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 16

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

• There should be space in the room for storage of towels, medicines, cosmetics and grooming appliances.

• Floors and walls require waterproof surfaces such as tile or surrounds and sealing.

• Tile layout and placement must be carefully planned and measured.

• There must be adequate ventilation and lighting.

• Small details such as selecting hardware, placement of towel or grab bars, mirror height, lighting and choosing shower stall accessories require special attention. 

• There are also aesthetic issues to address in the design, which include pattern and layout of wall and floor tile, optimizing a small space, form and style of fixtures, lighting, cabinet selection and trim.

• Structural issues such as allocation of space for a privy, the width of the entrance to the room, placement of windows and design options for the shower should be considered in the design.

A poorly designed bathroom will not meet your needs or add value to your home. To get the best result and return on your investment, it pays to consult a professional bath designer. If you work with a design/build firm, like Neal’s, the cost of working with a design professional is included in the total cost of the project. We offer a complimentary in-home initial consultation with a project consultant to look at the space and help you get started with planning the project.

When you meet with a design professional to discuss your bathroom remodeling project, here is what to expect:

A design professional will want to hear your ideas.A designer always wants to create a design that meets a client’s needs and aspirations. At Neal’s, our Design Team has more than 125 years of combined experience and has worked with hundreds of Cincinnati homeowners to design projects you will see on our website. The designer is interested in your objectives and communicating with you throughout the design process to address both major and minor details of the project.

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 17

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

Be prepared to discuss some of the details you want to address in the design before a plan is drawn.

The National Kitchen and Bath Association, a professional organization of kitchen and bath designers, suggests that consumers do some research prior to meeting with a designer. NKBA advises:

• Make a written checklist of major and minor problems you have with your current bathroom.• Collect ideas and information to share with your designer.

Answering the questions and completing the checklist in this guide will help your bathroom professional create drawings and estimate the cost of your project.

Be prepared to discuss your budget expectations.It’s important that your project consultant and designer know what you intend to budget for the project from the onset. Bathroom design professionals are knowledgeable about product lines and product performance. They can help you save money by recommending products that are best suited for your project and remain within your budget.

Homeowner’s Guide to Bathroom Remodeling 18

Neal’s Design•Remodel www.neals.com

Setting Your Timetable

The last piece of the puzzle is to establish when you would like to start your project, and when you hope to have it completed. Give yourself 30-60 days to complete a feasibility study of design and pricing options before construction can begin. Shorter timetables will introduce new challenges, particularly in terms of scheduling and requiring quicker turnarounds on the work involved. Also, keep in mind that many elements of your bathroom remodel, particularly your cabinets, are dictated by industry-standard timelines and delivery schedules. Plan to discuss the logistics of your project with your designer or contractor, including any scheduling issues that may impact your family.

Next Steps

Once you’ve thought about and answered these questions, the next step is to speak with your remodeler about your ideas and set up an in-home appointment to assess your space and discuss your project priorities. Your project consultant will be able to answer your questions, and offer some solutions for staying within a budget that works for you.

Call us at (513) 489-7700 to explore the possibilities, get answers to your questions and schedule an in-home appointment. You can also schedule an appointment on our website.

Visit ourDESIGN CENTER

7770 E. Kemper RoadCincinnati, OH 45249

(513) 489-7700

online at: www.neals.com